One of the first things I do in a new studio is find exactly on the horizon where the sun rises and sets. It is interesting to watch as it shifts from one point to another; during winter, spring, summer and fall. I feel a sense of place in my environment having this knowledge.

I’m working on a series of small studies which will eventually become larger canvases. I’m exploring how light plays with the landscape as the sun rises; using a somewhat limited palette of reds and yellows. All the scenes are captured through my studio windows as the sun rises over the rooftops of downtown New Bedford. The sun rises pretty quick so I photograph these brief moments of splendor then take my time working on chosen scenes.

Much of the inspiration for my landscape work comes from the wide vista I have in my studio. I can see much of downtown New Bedford and the neighboring town, Fairhaven. This small painting is of the New Bedford Whaling Museum‘s iconic Cupola during the day. It has become a subject that I paint and draw quite often.